ESPN's Chris Canty Says Cowboys Are 'for Entertainment Purposes' Only

Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, August 14th 2025 at 14:48 GMT by Sports Illustrated
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

'First Take' turned its attention to the Cowboys on Thursday.

ESPN Analyst Chris Canty Labels Dallas Cowboys as 'Entertainment Purposes Only' on First Take

In a fiery segment on ESPN's First Take, former NFL defensive end and current ESPN analyst Chris Canty didn't hold back in his assessment of the Dallas Cowboys, declaring them suitable for "entertainment purposes only." Canty's comments came amid ongoing discussions about the team's underwhelming performance and persistent off-field drama, painting a picture of a franchise that captivates audiences more through spectacle than through on-field success. This critique resonates deeply in the NFL landscape, where the Cowboys, often dubbed "America's Team," generate immense media buzz but have struggled to translate that into postseason glory.

Canty, who played for teams like the New York Giants and Baltimore Ravens during his career, drew from his insider perspective to dismantle the Cowboys' current state. He argued that while the team boasts star power and a massive fanbase, their approach lacks the seriousness required for championship contention. "The Dallas Cowboys are for entertainment purposes only," Canty emphatically stated during the show, likening them to a reality TV show rather than a legitimate Super Bowl threat. He pointed to the organization's penchant for drama, from contract disputes to coaching controversies, as distractions that overshadow their football fundamentals.

The discussion on First Take, hosted by Stephen A. Smith and featuring panelists like Molly Qerim and others, often revolves around hot-button NFL topics, and the Cowboys are a perennial favorite due to their high visibility. Canty's take was particularly pointed, suggesting that owner Jerry Jones prioritizes the business side of the franchise—merchandise sales, stadium revenue, and media partnerships—over building a winning culture. Jones, a Hall of Fame inductee known for his hands-on style, has turned the Cowboys into a global brand, but critics like Canty argue this comes at the expense of sustained excellence. Canty highlighted how the team's last Super Bowl win was in 1995, a drought that has seen them fail to reach even the NFC Championship in recent decades despite talented rosters.

Expanding on his point, Canty delved into specific issues plaguing the Cowboys. He criticized quarterback Dak Prescott's contract situation, noting how ongoing negotiations and public spats create unnecessary noise. Prescott, a Pro Bowl talent, has led the team to regular-season success but faltered in playoffs, with Canty implying that the surrounding circus hampers his focus. Similarly, Canty touched on head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure, questioning whether his strategies are innovative enough to compete against elite NFC teams like the San Francisco 49ers or Philadelphia Eagles. McCarthy, who won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers, has brought stability but not the breakthrough results fans crave.

Canty's commentary also extended to the Cowboys' defense, once a strength under former coordinator Dan Quinn but now facing uncertainties after Quinn's departure to the Washington Commanders. He argued that without addressing these core deficiencies—such as bolstering the offensive line or improving run defense—the team remains stuck in a cycle of hype followed by disappointment. "They're great for ratings, great for headlines, but when it comes to winning in January and February, they're nowhere to be found," Canty quipped, underscoring the gap between perception and reality.

This isn't the first time the Cowboys have faced such scrutiny. Pundits across networks have long debated their "all sizzle, no steak" reputation, where preseason optimism gives way to mid-season meltdowns. Canty, however, brought a player's authenticity to the table, recalling his own experiences facing Dallas in high-stakes games. He praised individual talents like wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and edge rusher Micah Parsons, acknowledging their elite skills, but emphasized that talent alone doesn't win titles without cohesion and leadership.

The First Take panel reacted variably to Canty's bold claim. Stephen A. Smith, a known Cowboys critic, amplified the sentiment, agreeing that Jerry Jones' micromanagement stifles progress. Smith has famously called the Cowboys "an accident waiting to happen," and Canty's words aligned with this narrative, sparking a lively debate. Other analysts pushed back, defending the team's potential if they can navigate injuries and execute better in clutch moments. Yet, Canty's overarching message was clear: the Cowboys excel at drawing eyeballs, but for fans seeking genuine contention, they might as well tune in for the drama rather than the wins.

Beyond the immediate broadcast, Canty's remarks reflect broader NFL trends. In an era where social media amplifies every storyline, teams like the Cowboys thrive on controversy to stay relevant. This "entertainment-first" model contrasts with more stoic franchises like the Kansas City Chiefs or New England Patriots under Bill Belichick, who prioritized results over spectacle. Canty suggested that until Dallas shifts its focus—perhaps by empowering coaches more or streamlining front-office decisions—they'll remain a punchline in serious contender conversations.

Fans and analysts alike have taken to social media to weigh in, with some Cowboys supporters dismissing Canty as a hater, while others concede the painful truth in his words. The team's massive following ensures that such critiques only fuel more discussion, perpetuating the very entertainment cycle Canty described. As the NFL season progresses, all eyes will be on Dallas to see if they can defy the narrative and prove they're more than just a sideshow.

In essence, Chris Canty's takedown on First Take serves as a wake-up call for the Cowboys organization. It's a reminder that while entertainment value keeps the lights on, true legacy in the NFL is built on championships, not clicks. Whether this sparks internal changes or merely adds to the ongoing saga remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Dallas Cowboys continue to dominate the conversation, for better or worse. (Word count: 852)

Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/nfl/espn-chris-canty-cowboys-entertainment-purposes-only-first-take ]

N※N

ESPN's Chris Canty Says Cowboys Are 'for Entertainment Purposes' Only

ESPN Analyst Chris Canty Labels Dallas Cowboys as 'Entertainment Purposes Only' on First Take